On January 17, 1965, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration XA-NUT) operated by Aerovias del Norte was involved in an aviation accident near Durango, Mexico during landing or approach. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot attempted a return to the airport following an unexpected in-flight situation, which resulted in a crash during the final approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed during an attempted return to Durango Airport following an in-flight emergency, resulting in no survivors.
What happened
Following a departure from Durango Airport, the pilot of a twin-engine aircraft encountered an unforeseen complication during the initial climb. In response to this unexpected situation, the flight crew decided to abort the mission and attempt a return to the airfield.
While performing the approach for landing, the aircraft impacted the ground during the final phase of flight. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were 10 fatalities among the occupants of the plane, with no survivors reported from the crash site.
Findings
The crew attempted to return to the departure airport after an unexpected event occurred shortly after takeoff.
The aircraft was destroyed upon impact during the final approach.
Probable cause
The pilot attempted a return to the airport following an unexpected in-flight situation, which resulted in a crash during the final approach.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Jan 1965 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Durango, Mexico?
A twin-engine aircraft crashed during an attempted return to Durango Airport following an in-flight emergency, resulting in no survivors.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Jan 1965 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jan 1965 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration XA-NUT, operated by Aerovias del Norte, at Durango, Mexico.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot attempted a return to the airport following an unexpected in-flight situation, which resulted in a crash during the final approach.
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